Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: July 24, 2025

Purpose: The building forming the Royal Harbour Car Park was built in the 1970’s. The original structure was refurbished in 2003. The structure has had no further refurbishment to date, therefore there is a significant maintenance backlog. The exposed location and nature of the structure together with lack of ongoing maintenance has led to the building suffering degradation.   The Council is currently leasing the building on a long term lease. The lease provides, amongst other things, for the tenant to keep the property in good and substantial repair. OSP and Cabinet resolved at their meeting on 10th & 19th December 2024, to seek to exercise an option to purchase the car park  which arises in 2025, which would have significant long term financial benefits for the Council.   The car park forms the initial gateway to visitors to Ramsgate, as the main town centre and seafront car park. The building in its current condition does not reflect the vision for Ramsgate due to its neglected and tired visual unwelcoming appearance.

Content: Cabinet agreed the following:   1.  To approve the key decision to award a contract with a value in excess of £250k to undertake essential, external and internal redecoration of the car park including the internal refurbishment of the stairways to the building structures on the Royal Harbour Car Park, Leopold Street, Ramsgate, following a procurement exercise;   2.  That the Director of Place shall negotiate the final terms and sign the contract with the successful bidder.

Reasons for the decision: Agreeing the spend for this project will positively impact on the building; maintain the council’s obligations under the lease; reduce any complications in regards to purchase of the property as previously agreed by cabinet.

Alternative options considered: The Council could decide not to undertake remedial work to stop the deterioration of the building. This option was discounted because, as the tenant, the Council could face enforcement action under the lease through a breach of lease if not maintain the property.   Without completion of the remedial works, the council would not meet its obligations under the lease. This will potentially affect the ability of the council to purchase the property as agreed previously at Cabinet.